Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have withdrawn from the upcoming Madrid Open, raising fresh concerns over their preparations for the French Open in May.
World number two Alcaraz is battling a wrist problem that already forced him out of the Barcelona Open earlier this week. The Spaniard confirmed the setback in an emotional message to fans, admitting the decision to miss his home Masters event was painful.
“Madrid is home, one of the most special places on the calendar for me, and that’s why it hurts so much not to be able to play here for the second year in a row,” the seven-time Grand Slam winner said in an Instagram post.
“It hurts especially not to be able to be in front of my fans, in a tournament that’s so special to me. Thank you for your continued support, and I hope to see you soon.”
The 22-year-old now faces a race against time to be ready for Roland Garros, where he is chasing a third straight title when the clay-court major begins on 18 May.
Djokovic is also sidelined as he continues his recovery from a shoulder injury. The 24-time Grand Slam champion has not competed since his fourth-round defeat to Jack Draper at Indian Wells last month. He skipped the Miami Open and Monte-Carlo Masters as part of his rehabilitation.
“Madrid, unfortunately I won’t be able to compete this year. I’m continuing my recovery in order to be back soon,” Djokovic said on Instagram.
Draper himself is now a doubt for Paris after retiring injured during his opening match in Barcelona with a knee problem.
